Apple has announced starting from today until April 30, all devices received through their GiveBack trade-in and recycle program will include a donation to non-profit, Conservation International. The company also has debuted a new robot called Daisy, which can disassemble iPhones more efficiently before to recover valuable materials.
“At Apple, we’re constantly working toward smart solutions to address climate change and conserve our planet’s precious resources,” said Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives, in a statement. “In recognition of Earth Day, we are making it as simple as possible for our customers to recycle devices and do something good for the planet through Apple GiveBack. We’re also thrilled to introduce Daisy to the world, as she represents what’s possible when innovation and conservation meet.”
Conservation International was founded in 1987 and “uses science, policy and partnerships to protect the natural world people rely on for food, fresh water and livelihood,” operating in over 30 countries on six continents.
With Daisy, Apple’s latest recycling robot, the company is able to efficiently reclaim valuable materials within iPhone faster than before, as up to 200 iPhones can be taken apart per hour. Apple says Daisy “incorporates revolutionary technology based on Apple’s learnings from Liam, its first disassembly robot launched in 2016.” This robot, according to Apple, can recover materials at a higher quality that traditional recyclers cannot.
Apple’s website has a video of Daisy in action–expect this video to soon hit its YouTube channel.
Apple will also release its annual Environment Report today, which will cover all the aspects of the company’s environmental progress, focusing on reducing its carbon footprint, conservation precious resources and pioneering the use of safety materials in its products and processes.
Also, today Apple Watch users will get notified of an Earth Day Challenge activity, where they can earn a special achievement and iMessage stickers if they complete a 30 minute workout on Earth Day. Meanwhile, starting tomorrow Apple Store retail locations worldwide will show logos with green leaves to honour Earth Day.
Last week Apple noted its global facilities are now powered by 100% clean energy across 43 countries, while the total number of supplier commitments to do the same has now reached 23.
